Optimización de la generación distribuida en redes de distribución.

The objective of this study is to optimize the integration and operation of distributed photovoltaic generation in unbalanced three-phase distribution networks using an Optimal Power Flow (OPF) model, with the aim of improving the voltage profile, reducing technical losses, and evaluating the network’s hosting capacity. The proposed methodology is based on a co-simulation architecture that integrates the OpenDSS power flow engine with algebraic optimization models implemented in Pyomo using the Open-DSOPF framework, employing the KNITRO solver to solve a nonlinear optimization problem subject to electrical constraints. Scenarios with photovoltaic penetration rates of 0% and 100% were analyzed, taking into account voltage limits, the thermal capacity of transmission lines and transformers, as well as the control of active and reactive power by photovoltaic inverters. The results demonstrate that the proposed methodology significantly improves the voltage profile and increases the capacity to integrate distributed generation without violating the grid’s operational constraints. During hours of peak irradiance, approximately 92% of the nodes reached the upper operating limit of 1.10 p.u., identifying overvoltage as the main limiting factor on the feeder’s accommodation capacity. Furthermore, the distribution transformer operated at a load factor of less than 20% of its rated capacity, indicating that the limitation on increasing photovoltaic penetration is primarily associated with voltage regulation rather than the thermal capacity of the equipment. Overall, the results validate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology as a tool for the planning and operation of distribution networks with high penetration of distributed generation.